Bradford White’s AeroTherm heat pump water heaters report faults as F-prefix codes (F2, F4, F10, FC/FF/FI, FD/FE) shown on the unit’s control display. As of this writing, Google can’t even generate an AI Overview for this exact query — a strong sign that no single page has assembled this table before. Here’s what we’ve verified from Bradford White’s own documentation and videos.
Refrigerant work (FC/FF/FI/FD/FE codes involve recharging with R-134a) legally requires an EPA Section 608-certified technician in the US — this is not a DIY repair, and not just a safety recommendation.
Codes at a Glance
| Code | Meaning | |
|---|---|---|
| F2 | Compressor failure. Control energizes the compressor but the current sensor detects no current — check the compressor run capacitor. | Guide coming soon |
| F4 | Fan failure. Diagnose by entering service mode to test the fan; replace if it doesn’t respond. | Guide coming soon |
| F10 | Upper element problem. Check for 240V at the element and test its resistance (Bradford White’s own video cites roughly 12.5Ω — confirm against your specific model’s spec before replacing). | Guide coming soon |
| FC, FF, FI | Sealed refrigerant system issue. Check the T3A/T3B temperature sensors, look for leaks, and recharge with R-134a if needed. | Guide coming soon |
| FD, FE | Sealed system issue — same family as FC/FF/FI: check T3A/T3B sensors, airflow, and refrigerant for leaks. | Guide coming soon |
| F20 | Referenced in a JustAnswer thread as activated by a blocked condensate drain or elevated water temperature. | Guide coming soon |
| Error 110 / “Service Needed” | Per Bradford White’s own service manual, a lockout condition displayed as error code 110 with a “Service Needed” message. | Guide coming soon |
Step-by-Step Diagnosis
- DIY SAFE
Check the condensate drain first for any F20-type alert
A blocked drain is the simplest, most homeowner-fixable cause in this whole code family. - DIY WITH CAUTION
For F10 (element), check for 240V and test resistance with power off
Confirm the exact expected resistance against your specific model’s manual before assuming a bad element. - PRO ONLY
For F2, F4, FC/FF/FI, FD/FE
These involve the compressor, fan, or sealed refrigerant system — all professional-only repairs.
FAQ
What are the common error codes for Bradford White water heaters?
On the AeroTherm heat pump line, F2 (compressor), F4 (fan), F10 (element), and the FC/FF/FI/FD/FE family (sealed refrigerant system) are the ones with published information.
What is the most common problem with Bradford White water heaters?
There isn’t one single official statistic published for this. If you know your specific fault code, use the table above to find the likely cause and next step.
How to reset thermal switch on Bradford White water heater?
This depends on the exact model/control system — check the unit’s own manual or the Bradford White For The Pro technical documents portal for your specific model.
Written by HotWater Decoded — water heater repair specialists. Technically reviewed by a licensed technician on our team.
- Bradford White’s own official YouTube videos (“AeroTherm Error Codes FC, FF, FI”; “F10”; “F4”)
- Bradford White’s service manual PDF
- A Reddit r/heatpumps thread on T3A/T3B sensor diagnosis
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